Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies key terms

Having someone speak or act on behalf of people's views and interests in decision-making, such as an elected MP representing a constituency in Parliament.

A system in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf.

A focused question that an investigation aims to answer through evidence.

A policy area retained for decision-making by UK institutions rather than transferred to a devolved body.

A voluntary process in which a victim and an offender communicate about the harm caused by a crime, supported by a trained facilitator, so that the offender can take responsibility and make amends.

Understanding your own responsibilities and how they connect with the responsibilities of other team members.

The monarch’s formal approval of a bill, which makes it an Act of Parliament.

The principle that everyone, including public officials, is subject to the law and that legal powers must be exercised lawfully.

Rules determining where goods were sufficiently produced or processed to qualify for preferential trading terms.

The people selected to take part in research from the wider group being investigated.

A restrictive measure, such as an asset freeze or trade restriction, intended to put pressure on a state, organisation or individual to change their behaviour.

Careful examination of decisions, claims and actions to check whether they are justified and supported by evidence.

Investigation using information that already exists, such as reports, statistics, news articles or policies.

A parliamentary committee that investigates an area of government work, gathers evidence and publishes findings and recommendations.

A decision by a media organisation or journalist to withhold information rather than being directly ordered to do so.

A punishment imposed by a judge or magistrates on someone convicted of a criminal offence.

Guidance setting out the approach, starting points, ranges and relevant factors courts use when deciding sentences.

A payment made by someone using a particular council service, such as parking or a leisure facility.

An opposition spokesperson who scrutinises a corresponding government minister and presents alternative policies.

An economic area designed to allow goods, services, people and capital to move freely between participating countries, supported by common rules.

Practical activity intended to address a social need and benefit others.

A positive contribution to people's lives, such as providing resources, support, advice or a service.

Support with everyday needs, such as washing, dressing or eating, for people who need assistance.

A business organised to pursue a social purpose through its activities.

An aspect of identity connected to membership of social groups, such as friendship groups, a school, an occupation or a social class.

A political tradition that emphasises greater equality, collective provision and a strong role for the state, including common ownership of key industries.

Online platforms that allow users to create, share and respond to content.